In a release sent to The Dodo, the Belfast City Council announced its recommendation to release the dog, following certain court-mandated conditions.

"This means that, although assessed by an appropriate expert to be a pit bull terrier type, he can be returned to his owners, following court approval with conditions, most of which are mandatory under this legislation," the council notes.

On July 14, eight police officers and four dog wardens showed up on Hank's doorstep with a warrant to seize the dog. His owners, Collins and Joanne Meadows, weren't home at the time, so officers took the dog and left them a note.